EP2387099B1 - Wireless communication system - Google Patents
Wireless communication system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2387099B1 EP2387099B1 EP11165286.3A EP11165286A EP2387099B1 EP 2387099 B1 EP2387099 B1 EP 2387099B1 EP 11165286 A EP11165286 A EP 11165286A EP 2387099 B1 EP2387099 B1 EP 2387099B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- flexible film
- film substrate
- mounting elements
- contact
- signal
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
- H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
- H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
- H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
- H01Q1/36—Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella; Particular materials used therewith
- H01Q1/38—Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella; Particular materials used therewith formed by a conductive layer on an insulating support
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
- H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
- H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
- H01Q1/1207—Supports; Mounting means for fastening a rigid aerial element
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
- H01Q9/00—Electrically-short antennas having dimensions not more than twice the operating wavelength and consisting of conductive active radiating elements
- H01Q9/04—Resonant antennas
- H01Q9/30—Resonant antennas with feed to end of elongated active element, e.g. unipole
- H01Q9/42—Resonant antennas with feed to end of elongated active element, e.g. unipole with folded element, the folded parts being spaced apart a small fraction of the operating wavelength
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R12/00—Structural associations of a plurality of mutually-insulated electrical connecting elements, specially adapted for printed circuits, e.g. printed circuit boards [PCB], flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures, e.g. terminal strips, terminal blocks; Coupling devices specially adapted for printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures; Terminals specially adapted for contact with, or insertion into, printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables, or like generally planar structures
- H01R12/50—Fixed connections
- H01R12/59—Fixed connections for flexible printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables or like structures
- H01R12/65—Fixed connections for flexible printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables or like structures characterised by the terminal
- H01R12/69—Fixed connections for flexible printed circuits, flat or ribbon cables or like structures characterised by the terminal deformable terminals, e.g. crimping terminals
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R9/00—Structural associations of a plurality of mutually-insulated electrical connecting elements, e.g. terminal strips or terminal blocks; Terminals or binding posts mounted upon a base or in a case; Bases therefor
- H01R9/03—Connectors arranged to contact a plurality of the conductors of a multiconductor cable, e.g. tapping connections
- H01R9/05—Connectors arranged to contact a plurality of the conductors of a multiconductor cable, e.g. tapping connections for coaxial cables
- H01R9/0515—Connection to a rigid planar substrate, e.g. printed circuit board
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04B—TRANSMISSION
- H04B1/00—Details of transmission systems, not covered by a single one of groups H04B3/00 - H04B13/00; Details of transmission systems not characterised by the medium used for transmission
- H04B1/38—Transceivers, i.e. devices in which transmitter and receiver form a structural unit and in which at least one part is used for functions of transmitting and receiving
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R2103/00—Two poles
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R2201/00—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications
- H01R2201/02—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications for antennas
Definitions
- the invention relates to a flexible antenna terminated to a coaxial cable.
- the flexible antenna forms part of a wireless communication system.
- Wireless communication systems are in use and have a wide variety of applications including voice communication, data communication, and the like.
- wireless communication systems may be used to communicate between cell phone towers and mobile phone.
- Wireless communication systems may be used to transfer data wirelessly between a router and a computer.
- Other examples of wireless communication systems include GPS systems, radio systems, PDAs, cell phones, data networks such as a LAN, and the like.
- Wireless communication systems typically include an antenna coupled to a wireless device by a cable.
- the wireless device includes a transmitter and/or a receiver. Size constraints due to miniaturization demand ultra small coaxial interconnects. In systems today, the coaxial cable is connected to the antenna using solder or a conductive epoxy connection.
- a small coaxial receptacle is soldered to the antenna and a plug is crimped to the wire which is inserted into the receptacle.
- Both systems utilize solder or epoxy at some interface between the coaxial cable and the antenna. The amount of material between the coaxial cable and the antenna changes the electrical properties of the interface, thereby changing the RF performance of the system. As transmission speeds increase, the negative impact on the electrical properties of the interface is exaggerated.
- Some wireless communication systems desire the use of flex circuits within the antenna. Electrical connections to flex circuits in antennas have heretofore proven difficult. Additionally, with miniaturization, connection to flexible circuits has proven difficult. For example, the flexible base material of the flex circuit may be damaged by the high solder melt temperatures required for solder attachment of the coaxial cable to the antenna. Some flexible materials such as KAPTON® are known that can withstand the high temperature of solder; however, such materials are costly.
- US 2008/0143635 discloses a retainer adapted for retaining a coaxial cable on a planar antenna.
- the retainer comprises a C-shaped clamp for clamping an outer conductor of the coaxial cable, and a connecting member adapted to be connected electrically to the planar antenna.
- an antenna according to any one of the appended claims 1 to 4 and a wireless communication system comprising the antenna according to claim 5.
- FIG 1 illustrates a wireless communication system 10 formed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the wireless communication system 10 includes an antenna 12 connected to a wireless device 14 by a cable 16.
- the wireless device 14 may be any type of wireless device, such as a mobile antenna, a GPS, a radio system, a PDA, a cellular handset, or other type of wireless communication systems, such as a LAN.
- the wireless device 14 is illustrated in Figure 1 schematically, and may include any structural features depending on the particular application.
- the cable 16 connecting the wireless device 14 and the antenna 12 may have any length.
- the cable 16 is a coaxial cable having an outer jacket 20, a cable braid 22, a dielectric 24 and a center conductor 26.
- the dielectric 24 surrounds the center conductor 26 and isolates the center conductor 26 from the cable braid 22.
- the cable braid 22 circumferentially surrounds the dielectric 24.
- the outer jacket 20 circumferentially surrounds the cable braid 22 and defines the outer surface of the cable 16.
- the cable 16 has a diameter 28 defined by the outer jacket 20.
- the diameter 28 may be extremely small.
- the diameter 28 may be less than 1 mm, such as 0.8mm (0.030 inches). Other diameters are possible in alternative embodiments.
- the antenna 12 includes a flexible film substrate 30 having a first surface 32 and a second surface 34 opposite the first surface 32.
- the flexible film substrate 30 has a signal element 36 and a ground element 38 on the first surface 32.
- the signal and ground elements 36, 38 may be represented by conductors or traces routed along the first surface 32 of the flexible film substrate 30.
- the positioning of the signal and ground elements 36, 38 along the first surface 32 may be selected to control electrical characteristics and properties of the antenna 12.
- the lengths and widths of the signal and ground elements 36, 38 may be selected to control the electrical characteristics of the antenna 12.
- the spacing between the signal and ground elements 36, 38 may be selected to control electrical characteristics of the antenna 12.
- the overall size, shape, and thickness of the flexible film substrate 30 may also be selected to control the electrical characteristics of the antenna 12.
- the flexible film substrate 30 may be any type of flexible substrate.
- the flexible film substrate 30 may be manufactured from a plastic material, such as a polyimide material, a PEEK material, a polyester material, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, and the like, a paper material, or any other suitable material for a flexible film substrate.
- the signal and ground elements 36, 38 may be deposited on the first surface 32, such as by a screen printing process, an inkjet process, a gravure process, and the like.
- the flexible film substrate 30 of the illustrated embodiment may constitute a flexible printed circuit.
- flexible foil circuits may be created by laminating thin copper strips between layers of flexible material.
- the flexible film substrate 30 may be configured to flex during its normal use, such as by folding or bending the flexible film substrate 30 to fit within a particular space or area of the wireless device 14.
- the antenna 12 includes a signal contact 40 and ground contact 42.
- the signal contact 40 is mounted to the flexible film substrate 30 and is electrically connected to the signal element 36.
- the ground contact 42 is mounted to the flexible film substrate 30 and is electrically connected to the ground element 38.
- the signal contact 40 and ground contact 42 are mechanically connected to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the signal contact 40 and ground contact 42 may be mounted to the flexible film substrate 30 without the use of solder or epoxy.
- the signal contact 40 and ground contact 42 may be connected to the signal element 36 and ground element 38, respectively, by compression connections, wherein the signal and ground contacts 40, 42 are pressed against the signal and ground elements 36, 38 in direct electrical contact with the signal and ground elements 36, 38, respectively.
- the signal contact 40 includes a base 50 and mounting elements 52 used to secure the signal contact 40 to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the base 50 is electrically connected to the signal element 36.
- the mounting elements 52 mechanically secure the signal contact 40 to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 52 may pierce through the flexible film substrate 30 and wrap around the second surface 34 of the flexible film substrate 30.
- Other types of mechanical fastening means or processes may be used in other embodiments to mechanically secure the signal contact 40 to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the signal contact 40 includes a wire termination 54 extending from the base 50.
- the wire termination 54 is configured to be terminated to the center conductor 26 of the cable 16.
- the wire termination 54 constitutes a crimp type connection where the wire termination 54 is crimped to the center conductor 26.
- the wire termination 54 extends from a first end 56 of the base 50 which is opposite to a second end 58 of the base 50.
- the signal contact 40 extends along a longitudinal axis 59, with the wire termination 54 extending from the base 50 and also extending along the longitudinal axis 59.
- the longitudinal axis 59 is parallel to the signal element 36.
- Figure 1 illustrates the wire termination 54 in an unterminated state. Other types of wire terminations are possible in alternative embodiments, including insulation displacement terminations.
- the ground contact 42 includes a base 60 and mounting elements 62 used to secure the ground contact 42 to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the base 60 is electrically connected to the ground element 38.
- the mounting elements 62 mechanically secure the ground contact 42 to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 62 may pierce through the flexible film substrate 30 and wrap around the second surface 34 of the flexible film substrate 30.
- Other types of mechanical fastening means or processes may be used in other embodiments to mechanically secure the ground contact 42 to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the ground contact 42 includes a wire termination 64 extending from the base 60.
- the wire termination 64 is configured to be terminated to the cable braid 22 of the cable 16.
- the wire termination 64 constitutes a crimp type connection where the wire termination 64 is crimped to the cable braid 22.
- the wire termination 64 extends from a first end 66 of the base 60 which is opposite to a second end 68 of the base 60.
- the ground contact 42 extends along a longitudinal axis 69, with the wire termination 64 extending from the base 60 and also extending along the longitudinal axis 69.
- the longitudinal axis 69 is parallel to the ground element 38.
- the longitudinal axis 69 of the ground contact 42 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 59 of the signal contact 40.
- the cable 16 may be easily loaded into the wire termination 54, the wire termination 64 and a strain relief element 70 of the ground contact 42.
- Figure 1 illustrates the wire termination 64 in a terminated state.
- Other types of wire terminations are possible in alternative embodiments, including insulation displacement terminations.
- the ground contact 42 includes the strain relief element 70, which is configured to engage the jacket 20 of the cable 16.
- the strain relief element 70 represents a crimp type connection for crimping to the jacket 20.
- Other types of strain relief elements may be used in alternative embodiments to engage the jacket 20 and provide strain relief for the cable 16.
- the strain relief element 70 helps to maintain a relative position of the jacket 20 with respect to the inner portions of the cable 16, such as the center conductor 26 and the cable braid 22.
- FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the antenna 12.
- the flexible film substrate 30 includes an opening 80 therethrough.
- the opening 80 is aligned with the signal and ground elements 36, 38.
- the signal and ground elements 36, 38 are aligned with one another along a common axis 82.
- the opening 80 is also aligned with the axis 82.
- the axis 82 is parallel to the longitudinal axes 59, 69 of the signal and ground contacts 40, 42.
- the signal element 36 includes a mounting portion 84 at an end of the signal element 36.
- the mounting portion 84 is positioned proximate to the opening 80.
- the ground element 38 includes a mounting portion 86 at an end of the ground element 38.
- the mounting portion 86 is positioned proximate to the opening 80.
- the signal contact 40 is configured to be mounted to the flexible film substrate 30 such that the signal contact 40 engages the mounting portion 84.
- the ground contact 42 is configured to be mounted to the flexible film substrate 30 such that the ground contact 42 engages the mounting portion 86.
- the mounting portions 84, 86, and thus the signal and ground contacts 40, 42 are aligned with one another along the axis 82, such that the signal contact 40 and the ground contact 42 are configured to receive the cable 16 (shown in Figure 1 ).
- the signal contact 40 is illustrated partially mounted to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the signal contact 40 is not fully seated on the flexible film substrate 30.
- the ground contact 42 is illustrated in an un-mounted position vertically above the flexible film substrate 30.
- the ground contact 42 is aligned over the ground element 38 of the flexible film substrate 30.
- the signal and ground contacts 40, 42 are loaded on to the flexible film substrate 30 and secured thereto.
- the mounting elements 52, 62 are used to secure the signal contact 40 and ground contact 42, respectively, to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 52 constitute barbs that are configured to pierce through the flexible film substrate 30.
- Figure 2 illustrates the signal contact 40 partially mounted to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 52 are loaded through the flexible film substrate 30, and the signal contact 40 is pressed down on to the flexible film substrate 30 until the base 50 engages the signal element 36.
- the mounting elements 52 may have points at distal ends thereof that allow the mounting elements 52 to pierce the flexible film substrate 30.
- the flexible film substrate 30 may have slots or openings formed therethrough that receive the mounting elements 52.
- the mounting elements 52 When loaded onto the flexible film substrate 30, the mounting elements 52 are configured to engage the second surface 34 of the flexible film substrate 30. The engagement of the mounting elements 52 to the second surface 34 retains the signal contact 40 on the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 52 may be folded or wrapped underneath the signal element 36 along the second surface 34.
- the mounting elements 52 may be bent inward, such as in a manner similar to a staple, to secure the signal contact 40 to the flexible film substrate 30.
- one or both of the mounting elements 52 may be flared outward rather than bent inward to secure the signal contact 40 to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 62 may be rolled under the flexible film substrate 30 or otherwise manipulated such that the mounting element 62 becomes enlarged beneath the flexible film substrate to resist backing out of the mounting elements from the slots so that the relative position of the ground contact 42 may be stabilized with respect to the flexible film substrate.
- mounting elements 52 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, four mounting elements 52 are provided, with two mounting elements 52 along one side of the base 50 and two mounting elements 52 along the opposite side base 50.
- the mounting elements 52 may be aligned with one another across the base 50 such that the mounting elements 52 engage one another when the mounting elements 52 are folded inward.
- the mounting elements 52 may be staggered so that the mounting elements are not aligned with one another when the mounting elements 52 are bent inward.
- the mounting elements 62 may be substantially similar to the mounting elements 52.
- the mounting elements 62 may constitute barbs that are configured to pierce through the flexible film substrate 30.
- Figure 2 illustrates the ground contact 42 poised for mounting to the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 62 are loaded through the flexible film substrate 30, and the ground contact 42 is pressed down onto the flexible film substrate 30 until the base 60 engages the ground element 38.
- the mounting elements 62 may have points at distal ends thereof that allow the mounting elements 62 to pierce the flexible film substrate 30.
- the flexible film substrate 30 may have slots or openings formed therethrough that receive the mounting elements 62.
- the mounting elements 62 are configured to engage the second surface 34 of the flexible film substrate 30 to retain the ground contact 42 on the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 62 may be folded or wrapped underneath the ground element 38 along the second surface 34. Alternatively, the mounting elements 62 may be rolled under the flexible film substrate 30 or otherwise manipulated such that the mounting element 62 becomes enlarged beneath the flexible film substrate to resist backing out of the mounting elements from the slots so that the relative position of the ground contact 42 may be stabilized with respect to the flexible film substrate.
- FIG. 3 is a bottom perspective view of the antenna 12.
- the mounting elements 52 of the signal contact 40 are illustrated along the second surface 34 of the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 62 of the ground contact 42 are illustrated along the second surface 34 of the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 52, 62 extend through the flexible film substrate 30 and are bent inward on top of one another.
- the mounting elements 52, 62 may be crimped into the folded arrangement illustrated in Figure 3 . Other folding operations or processes may be used in alternative embodiments to secure the mounting elements 52, 62 to the second surface 34 of the flexible film substrate 30.
- wrapping the mounting elements 52, 62 under the second surface 34 forces the mounting elements 52, 62 against the second surface 34 and/or forces the corresponding bases 50, 60 (shown in Figure 2 ) against the first surface 32 and the signal and ground elements 36, 38, respectively.
- the mounting elements 52, 62 may also force the flexible film substrate 30 against the bases 50, 60 which may cause the signal element 36 and the ground element 38 to be pressed against the bases 50, 60 of the signal contact 40 and the ground contact 42, respectively.
- the flexible film substrate 30 may be at least partially compressed between the mounting elements 52, 62 and the bases 50, 60, respectively.
- Figure 3 also illustrates the opening 80 extending through the flexible film substrate 30.
- the mounting elements 52, 62 are aligned with the opening 80 along the axis 82.
- Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the antenna 12.
- Figure 4 illustrates the flexible film substrate 30 with the signal and ground elements 36, 38 along the first surface 32.
- Figure 4 also illustrates the first signal contact 40 mounted to the flexible film substrate 30 such that the signal contact 40 engages the signal element 36.
- the ground contact 42 is mounted to the flexible film substrate 30 such that the ground contact 42 engages the ground element 38.
- the wire termination 54 of the signal contact 40 is terminated to the center conductor 26.
- the wire termination 64 of the ground contact 42 is terminated to the cable braid 22 of the cable 16.
- the strain relief element 70 of the ground contact 42 is terminated to the jacket 20 of the cable 16.
- the opening 80 is positioned vertically below the wire termination 54, the wire termination 64 and the strain relief element 70.
- tooling extends through the opening 80 to crimp the wire termination 54 to the center conductor 26, to crimp the wire termination 64 to the cable braid 22 and to crimp the strain relief element 70 to the jacket 20.
- a crimping portion of corresponding dies are loaded through the opening 80 to engage the signal contact 40 and the ground contact 42.
- the opening 80 provides access to the signal contact 40 and the ground contact 42 for termination to the cable 16.
- the wire terminations 54, 64 are generally aligned with one another to receive the cable 16.
- the wire terminations 54, 64 are positioned proximate to one another, which may reduce an overall length of the cable 16 and/or affect electrical characteristics of the connection.
- the flexible film substrate 30 When assembled, the flexible film substrate 30 is captured between the base 50 and the mounting elements 52.
- the flexible film substrate 30 may be at least partially deflected or flexed inward when the mounting elements 52 are pressed closed. As such, a direct electrical connection is provided between the signal contact 40 and signal element 36, without the need for solder or epoxy.
- the signal contact 40 is mechanically self-secured to the flexible film substrate 30. No additional element or component is needed to make electrical or mechanical connection between the signal contact 40 and the signal element 36.
- the flexible film substrate 30 When assembled, the flexible film substrate 30 is captured between the base 60 and the mounting elements 62.
- the flexible film substrate 30 may be at least partially deflected or flexed inward when the mounting elements 62 are pressed closed. As such, a direct electrical connection is provided between the ground contact 42 and ground element 38, without the need for solder or epoxy.
- the ground contact 42 is mechanically self-secured to the flexible film substrate 30. No additional element or component is needed to make electrical or mechanical connection between the ground contact 42 and ground element 38.
- FIG 5 is a top perspective view an alternative antenna 112.
- the antenna 112 is configured to be connected to a wireless device, such as the wireless device 14 (shown in Figure 1 ) by a cable 116.
- the cable 116 is a coaxial cable having an outer jacket 120, a cable braid 122, a dielectric 124 and a center conductor 126 (shown in phantom).
- the dielectric 124 surrounds the center conductor 126 and isolates the center conductor 126 from the cable braid 122.
- the cable braid 122 circumferentially surrounds the dielectric 124.
- the outer jacket 120 circumferentially surrounds the cable braid 122 and defines the outer surface of the cable 116.
- the cable 116 has a diameter 128 defined by the outer jacket 120.
- the antenna 112 includes a flexible film substrate 130 having a first surface 132 and a second surface 134 opposite the first surface 132.
- the flexible film substrate 130 may be similar to the flexible film substrate 30 (shown in Figure 1 ).
- the flexible film substrate 130 has a signal element 136 and a ground element 138 on the first surface 132.
- the flexible film substrate 130 may be configured to flex during its normal use, such as by folding or bending the flexible film substrate 130 to fit within a particular space or area of the electronic device 14.
- the antenna 112 includes a signal contact 140 and ground contact 142.
- the signal contact 140 is mounted to the flexible film substrate 130 and is electrically connected to the signal element 136.
- the ground contact 142 is mounted to the flexible film substrate 130 and is electrically connected to the ground element 138.
- the signal contact 140 and ground contact 142 are mechanically connected to the flexible film substrate 130.
- the signal contact 140 and ground contact 142 are mounted to the flexible film substrate 130 without the use of solder or epoxy.
- the signal contact 140 and ground contact 142 may be connected to the signal element 136 and ground element 138, respectively, by compression connections, wherein the signal and ground contacts 140, 142 are pressed against the signal and ground elements 136, 138 in direct electrical contact with the signal and ground elements 136, 138, respectively.
- the signal contact 140 includes a base 150 and mounting elements 152 used to secure the signal contact 140 to the flexible film substrate 130.
- the base 150 is electrically connected to the signal element 136.
- the mounting elements 152 may be similar to the mounting elements 52 (shown in Figure 1 ).
- the mounting elements 152 mechanically secure the signal contact 140 to the flexible film substrate 130.
- the mounting elements 152 may pierce through the flexible film substrate 130 and wrap around the second surface 134 of the flexible film substrate 130.
- the mounting elements 152 may constitute barbs that are configured to pierce through the flexible film substrate 130.
- Other types of mechanical fastening means or processes may be used in other embodiments to mechanically secure the signal contact 140 to the flexible film substrate 130.
- the signal contact 140 includes a wire termination 154 extending from the base 150.
- the wire termination 154 is configured to be terminated to the center conductor 126 of the cable 116.
- the wire termination 154 constitutes an insulation displacement type connection where the center conductor 126 and dielectric 124 are loaded between barbs 156 that pierce or cut through the dielectric 124 to mechanically and electrically engage the center conductor 126.
- the wire termination 154 includes two sets of barbs 156 spaced apart from one another. The barbs 156 mechanically and electrically connect to two different areas of the center conductor 126 for increased stability and connection.
- the barbs 156 may be provided at opposite ends of the base 150.
- Other types of wire terminations are possible in alternative embodiments, including crimp type terminations.
- the signal contact 140 extends along a longitudinal axis 158, which is parallel to the signal element 136.
- the ground contact 142 includes a base 160 and mounting elements 162 used to secure the ground contact 142 to the flexible film substrate 130.
- the base 160 is electrically connected to the ground element 138.
- the mounting elements 162 mechanically secure the ground contact 142 to the flexible film substrate 130.
- the mounting elements 162 may pierce through the flexible film substrate 130 and wrap around the second surface 134 of the flexible film substrate 130.
- Other types of mechanical fastening means or processes may be used in other embodiments to mechanically secure the ground contact 142 to the flexible film substrate 130.
- the ground contact 142 includes a wire termination 164 extending from the base 160.
- the wire termination 164 is configured to be terminated to the cable braid 122 of the cable 116.
- the wire termination 164 constitutes an insulation displacement type connection where the jacket 120 and cable braid 122 are loaded between barbs 166 that pierce or cut through the jacket 120 to mechanically and electrically engage the cable braid 122.
- the wire termination 164 includes two sets of barbs 166 spaced apart from one another. The barbs 166 mechanically and electrically connect to two different areas of the cable braid 122 for increased stability and connection.
- the barbs 166 may be provided at opposite ends of the base 160.
- Other types of wire terminations are possible in alternative embodiments, including crimp type terminations.
- the ground contact 142 extends along a longitudinal axis 168, which is parallel to the ground element 138.
- the ground contact 142 includes a strain relief element 170 configured to engage the jacket 120 of the cable 116.
- the strain relief element 170 represents an interference type connection for holding the jacket 120.
- Other types of strain relief elements may be used in alternative embodiments to engage the jacket 120 and provide strain relief for the cable 116, such as a crimp connection.
- the strain relief element 170 helps to maintain a relative position of the cable 116 with respect to the signal and ground contacts 140, 142.
- the strain relief element 170 includes a first spring beam 172 and a second spring beam 174.
- the first and second spring beams 172, 174 extend from opposite sides of the base 160 and face in opposite directions.
- the first and second spring beams 172, 174 are curled inward toward the cable 116.
- Distal ends 176, 178 of the first and second spring beams 172, 174 engage the jacket 120 to hold the jacket 120 in place relative to the base 160.
- the first and second spring beams 172, 174 define receiving spaces 180, 182, respectively, that receive the cable 116.
- the first and second spring beams 172, 174 are curved around the receiving spaces 180, 182.
- the receiving spaces 180, 182 are sized to receive a range of different gauge cables 116.
- the first and second spring beams 172, 174 may be at least partially deflected outward, causing an inward spring bias toward the cable 116.
- the first and second spring beams 172, 174 thus hold the cable 116 by an interference engagement. While two spring beams 172, 174 are illustrated in Figure 5 , any number of spring beams may be provided in alternative embodiments. Additionally, the spring beams 170, 172 may extend from the same side of the base 160 in an alternative embodiment.
- the strain relief element 170 is positioned between the two sets of barbs 166 such that the wire termination 164 is terminated to the cable 116 on both sides of the strain relief element 170. Having the strain relief element 170 positioned between the two sets of barbs 166 shortens the overall length of the ground contact 142, as compared to a ground contact in which the strain relief element 170 is positioned rearward of the rear set of barbs 166. Having the strain relief element 170 positioned between the two sets of barbs 166 additionally provides mechanical retention of the jacket 120 with respect to the wire termination 154.
- the mounting elements 152 are loaded through the flexible film substrate 130, and the signal contact 140 is pressed down on to the flexible film substrate 130 until the base 150 engages the signal element 136.
- the mounting elements 152 may have points at distal ends thereof that allow the mounting elements 152 to pierce the flexible film substrate 130.
- the flexible film substrate 130 may have slots or openings formed therethrough that receive the mounting elements 152.
- the mounting elements 152 When loaded onto the flexible film substrate 130, the mounting elements 152 are configured to engage the second surface 134 of the flexible film substrate 130. The engagement of the mounting elements 152 to the second surface 134 retains the signal contact 140 on the flexible film substrate 130.
- the mounting elements 152 may be folded or wrapped underneath the signal element 136 along the second surface 134.
- the mounting elements 152 may be bent inward, such as in a manner similar to a staple, to secure the signal contact 140 to the flexible film substrate 130.
- the mounting elements 162 may be substantially similar to the mounting elements 152 and may be secured to the flexible film substrate 130 in a similar manner.
- Wrapping the mounting elements 152, 162 under the second surface 134 forces the mounting elements 152, 162 against the second surface 134. Wrapping the mounting elements 152, 162 under the second surface 134 may force the corresponding bases 150, 160 against the first surface 132 and the signal and ground elements 136, 138, respectively. The mounting elements 152, 162 may also force the flexible film substrate 130 against the bases 150, 160 which may cause the signal element 136 and the ground element 138 to be pressed against the bases 150, 160 of the signal contact 140 and the ground contact 142, respectively. The flexible film substrate 130 may be at least partially compressed between the mounting elements 152, 162 and the bases 150, 160, respectively.
- Pressing the mounting elements 152 against the second surface 134 of the flexible film substrate 130 generally compresses the signal element 136 against the signal contact 140.
- the signal element 136 is pressed against the base 150 to ensure good electrical contact between the base 150 and the signal element 136.
- the flexible film substrate 130 is captured between the base 150 and the mounting elements 152.
- the flexible film substrate 130 may be at least partially deflected or flexed inward when the mounting elements 152 are pressed closed. As such, a direct electrical connection is provided between the signal contact 140 and signal element 136, without the need for solder or epoxy.
- the signal contact 140 is mechanically self-secured to the flexible film substrate 130. No additional element or component is needed to make electrical or mechanical connection between the signal contact 140 and the signal element 136.
- Pressing the mounting elements 162 against the second surface 134 of the flexible film substrate 130 generally compresses the ground element 138 against the ground contact 142.
- the ground element 138 is pressed against the base 160 to ensure good electrical contact between the base 160 and the ground element 138.
- the flexible film substrate 130 is captured between the base 160 and the mounting elements 162.
- the flexible film substrate 130 may be at least partially deflected or flexed inward when the mounting elements 162 are pressed closed. As such, a direct electrical connection is provided between the ground contact 142 and ground element 138, without the need for solder or epoxy.
- the ground contact 142 is mechanically self-secured to the flexible film substrate 130. No additional element or component is needed to make electrical or mechanical connection between the ground contact 142 and ground element 138.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
- Signal Processing (AREA)
- Details Of Aerials (AREA)
- Structure Of Printed Boards (AREA)
Description
- The invention relates to a flexible antenna terminated to a coaxial cable. The flexible antenna forms part of a wireless communication system.
- Wireless communication systems are in use and have a wide variety of applications including voice communication, data communication, and the like. For example, wireless communication systems may be used to communicate between cell phone towers and mobile phone. Wireless communication systems may be used to transfer data wirelessly between a router and a computer. Other examples of wireless communication systems include GPS systems, radio systems, PDAs, cell phones, data networks such as a LAN, and the like. Wireless communication systems typically include an antenna coupled to a wireless device by a cable. The wireless device includes a transmitter and/or a receiver. Size constraints due to miniaturization demand ultra small coaxial interconnects. In systems today, the coaxial cable is connected to the antenna using solder or a conductive epoxy connection. In other systems, a small coaxial receptacle is soldered to the antenna and a plug is crimped to the wire which is inserted into the receptacle. Both systems utilize solder or epoxy at some interface between the coaxial cable and the antenna. The amount of material between the coaxial cable and the antenna changes the electrical properties of the interface, thereby changing the RF performance of the system. As transmission speeds increase, the negative impact on the electrical properties of the interface is exaggerated.
- Some wireless communication systems desire the use of flex circuits within the antenna. Electrical connections to flex circuits in antennas have heretofore proven difficult. Additionally, with miniaturization, connection to flexible circuits has proven difficult. For example, the flexible base material of the flex circuit may be damaged by the high solder melt temperatures required for solder attachment of the coaxial cable to the antenna. Some flexible materials such as KAPTON® are known that can withstand the high temperature of solder; however, such materials are costly.
- A need remains for a wireless communication system that utilizes a flex circuit as an antenna.
-
US 2008/0143635 discloses a retainer adapted for retaining a coaxial cable on a planar antenna. The retainer comprises a C-shaped clamp for clamping an outer conductor of the coaxial cable, and a connecting member adapted to be connected electrically to the planar antenna. - According to the invention, there is provided an antenna according to any one of the appended
claims 1 to 4, and a wireless communication system comprising the antenna according to claim 5. - Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:
-
Figure 1 is a top perspective view of a wireless communication system formed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
Figure 2 is an exploded view of an antenna for the wireless communication system shown inFigure 1 . -
Figure 3 is a bottom perspective view of the antenna shown inFigure 2 . -
Figure 4 is a cross sectional view of the antenna shown inFigure 2 . -
Figure 5 is a top perspective view of an alternative antenna for the wireless communication system. -
Figure 1 illustrates awireless communication system 10 formed in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Thewireless communication system 10 includes anantenna 12 connected to awireless device 14 by acable 16. Thewireless device 14 may be any type of wireless device, such as a mobile antenna, a GPS, a radio system, a PDA, a cellular handset, or other type of wireless communication systems, such as a LAN. Thewireless device 14 is illustrated inFigure 1 schematically, and may include any structural features depending on the particular application. Thecable 16 connecting thewireless device 14 and theantenna 12 may have any length. - The
cable 16 is a coaxial cable having anouter jacket 20, acable braid 22, a dielectric 24 and acenter conductor 26. Thedielectric 24 surrounds thecenter conductor 26 and isolates thecenter conductor 26 from thecable braid 22. Thecable braid 22 circumferentially surrounds the dielectric 24. Theouter jacket 20 circumferentially surrounds thecable braid 22 and defines the outer surface of thecable 16. Thecable 16 has adiameter 28 defined by theouter jacket 20. Thediameter 28 may be extremely small. For example, thediameter 28 may be less than 1 mm, such as 0.8mm (0.030 inches). Other diameters are possible in alternative embodiments. - The
antenna 12 includes aflexible film substrate 30 having afirst surface 32 and asecond surface 34 opposite thefirst surface 32. Theflexible film substrate 30 has asignal element 36 and aground element 38 on thefirst surface 32. The signal andground elements first surface 32 of theflexible film substrate 30. The positioning of the signal andground elements first surface 32 may be selected to control electrical characteristics and properties of theantenna 12. Similarly, the lengths and widths of the signal andground elements antenna 12. The spacing between the signal andground elements antenna 12. The overall size, shape, and thickness of theflexible film substrate 30 may also be selected to control the electrical characteristics of theantenna 12. - The
flexible film substrate 30 may be any type of flexible substrate. Theflexible film substrate 30 may be manufactured from a plastic material, such as a polyimide material, a PEEK material, a polyester material, a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material, and the like, a paper material, or any other suitable material for a flexible film substrate. The signal andground elements first surface 32, such as by a screen printing process, an inkjet process, a gravure process, and the like. As such, theflexible film substrate 30 of the illustrated embodiment may constitute a flexible printed circuit. In an alternative embodiment, flexible foil circuits may be created by laminating thin copper strips between layers of flexible material. Theflexible film substrate 30 may be configured to flex during its normal use, such as by folding or bending theflexible film substrate 30 to fit within a particular space or area of thewireless device 14. - The
antenna 12 includes asignal contact 40 andground contact 42. Thesignal contact 40 is mounted to theflexible film substrate 30 and is electrically connected to thesignal element 36. Theground contact 42 is mounted to theflexible film substrate 30 and is electrically connected to theground element 38. Thesignal contact 40 andground contact 42 are mechanically connected to theflexible film substrate 30. The signal contact 40 andground contact 42 may be mounted to theflexible film substrate 30 without the use of solder or epoxy. Thesignal contact 40 andground contact 42 may be connected to thesignal element 36 andground element 38, respectively, by compression connections, wherein the signal andground contacts ground elements ground elements - The
signal contact 40 includes abase 50 andmounting elements 52 used to secure thesignal contact 40 to theflexible film substrate 30. Thebase 50 is electrically connected to thesignal element 36. In an exemplary embodiment, as will be described in further detail below, themounting elements 52 mechanically secure thesignal contact 40 to theflexible film substrate 30. For example, themounting elements 52 may pierce through theflexible film substrate 30 and wrap around thesecond surface 34 of theflexible film substrate 30. Other types of mechanical fastening means or processes may be used in other embodiments to mechanically secure thesignal contact 40 to theflexible film substrate 30. - The
signal contact 40 includes awire termination 54 extending from thebase 50. Thewire termination 54 is configured to be terminated to thecenter conductor 26 of thecable 16. In the illustrated embodiment, thewire termination 54 constitutes a crimp type connection where thewire termination 54 is crimped to thecenter conductor 26. Thewire termination 54 extends from afirst end 56 of the base 50 which is opposite to asecond end 58 of thebase 50. Thesignal contact 40 extends along alongitudinal axis 59, with thewire termination 54 extending from thebase 50 and also extending along thelongitudinal axis 59. Thelongitudinal axis 59 is parallel to thesignal element 36.Figure 1 illustrates thewire termination 54 in an unterminated state. Other types of wire terminations are possible in alternative embodiments, including insulation displacement terminations. - The
ground contact 42 includes abase 60 and mountingelements 62 used to secure theground contact 42 to theflexible film substrate 30. Thebase 60 is electrically connected to theground element 38. In an exemplary embodiment, as will be described in further detail below, the mountingelements 62 mechanically secure theground contact 42 to theflexible film substrate 30. For example, the mountingelements 62 may pierce through theflexible film substrate 30 and wrap around thesecond surface 34 of theflexible film substrate 30. Other types of mechanical fastening means or processes may be used in other embodiments to mechanically secure theground contact 42 to theflexible film substrate 30. - The
ground contact 42 includes awire termination 64 extending from thebase 60. Thewire termination 64 is configured to be terminated to thecable braid 22 of thecable 16. In the illustrated embodiment, thewire termination 64 constitutes a crimp type connection where thewire termination 64 is crimped to thecable braid 22. Thewire termination 64 extends from afirst end 66 of the base 60 which is opposite to asecond end 68 of thebase 60. Theground contact 42 extends along alongitudinal axis 69, with thewire termination 64 extending from thebase 60 and also extending along thelongitudinal axis 69. Thelongitudinal axis 69 is parallel to theground element 38. In an exemplary embodiment, thelongitudinal axis 69 of theground contact 42 is aligned with thelongitudinal axis 59 of thesignal contact 40. As such, thecable 16 may be easily loaded into thewire termination 54, thewire termination 64 and astrain relief element 70 of theground contact 42.Figure 1 illustrates thewire termination 64 in a terminated state. Other types of wire terminations are possible in alternative embodiments, including insulation displacement terminations. - The
ground contact 42 includes thestrain relief element 70, which is configured to engage thejacket 20 of thecable 16. In the illustrated embodiment, thestrain relief element 70 represents a crimp type connection for crimping to thejacket 20. Other types of strain relief elements may be used in alternative embodiments to engage thejacket 20 and provide strain relief for thecable 16. Thestrain relief element 70 helps to maintain a relative position of thejacket 20 with respect to the inner portions of thecable 16, such as thecenter conductor 26 and thecable braid 22. -
Figure 2 is an exploded view of theantenna 12. Theflexible film substrate 30 includes anopening 80 therethrough. Theopening 80 is aligned with the signal andground elements ground elements common axis 82. Theopening 80 is also aligned with theaxis 82. Theaxis 82 is parallel to thelongitudinal axes ground contacts - The
signal element 36 includes a mountingportion 84 at an end of thesignal element 36. The mountingportion 84 is positioned proximate to theopening 80. Theground element 38 includes a mountingportion 86 at an end of theground element 38. The mountingportion 86 is positioned proximate to theopening 80. - The
signal contact 40 is configured to be mounted to theflexible film substrate 30 such that thesignal contact 40 engages the mountingportion 84. Theground contact 42 is configured to be mounted to theflexible film substrate 30 such that theground contact 42 engages the mountingportion 86. The mountingportions ground contacts axis 82, such that thesignal contact 40 and theground contact 42 are configured to receive the cable 16 (shown inFigure 1 ). - In the illustrated embodiment, the
signal contact 40 is illustrated partially mounted to theflexible film substrate 30. Thesignal contact 40 is not fully seated on theflexible film substrate 30. Theground contact 42 is illustrated in an un-mounted position vertically above theflexible film substrate 30. Theground contact 42 is aligned over theground element 38 of theflexible film substrate 30. During assembly, the signal andground contacts flexible film substrate 30 and secured thereto. For example, the mountingelements signal contact 40 andground contact 42, respectively, to theflexible film substrate 30. - In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting
elements 52 constitute barbs that are configured to pierce through theflexible film substrate 30.Figure 2 illustrates thesignal contact 40 partially mounted to theflexible film substrate 30. During assembly, the mountingelements 52 are loaded through theflexible film substrate 30, and thesignal contact 40 is pressed down on to theflexible film substrate 30 until thebase 50 engages thesignal element 36. The mountingelements 52 may have points at distal ends thereof that allow the mountingelements 52 to pierce theflexible film substrate 30. Alternatively, theflexible film substrate 30 may have slots or openings formed therethrough that receive the mountingelements 52. When loaded onto theflexible film substrate 30, the mountingelements 52 are configured to engage thesecond surface 34 of theflexible film substrate 30. The engagement of the mountingelements 52 to thesecond surface 34 retains thesignal contact 40 on theflexible film substrate 30. - The mounting
elements 52 may be folded or wrapped underneath thesignal element 36 along thesecond surface 34. For example, the mountingelements 52 may be bent inward, such as in a manner similar to a staple, to secure thesignal contact 40 to theflexible film substrate 30. In an alternative embodiment, one or both of the mountingelements 52 may be flared outward rather than bent inward to secure thesignal contact 40 to theflexible film substrate 30. Alternatively, the mountingelements 62 may be rolled under theflexible film substrate 30 or otherwise manipulated such that the mountingelement 62 becomes enlarged beneath the flexible film substrate to resist backing out of the mounting elements from the slots so that the relative position of theground contact 42 may be stabilized with respect to the flexible film substrate. - Any number of mounting
elements 52 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, four mountingelements 52 are provided, with two mountingelements 52 along one side of thebase 50 and two mountingelements 52 along theopposite side base 50. The mountingelements 52 may be aligned with one another across the base 50 such that the mountingelements 52 engage one another when the mountingelements 52 are folded inward. Alternatively, the mountingelements 52 may be staggered so that the mounting elements are not aligned with one another when the mountingelements 52 are bent inward. - The mounting
elements 62 may be substantially similar to the mountingelements 52. For example, the mountingelements 62 may constitute barbs that are configured to pierce through theflexible film substrate 30.Figure 2 illustrates theground contact 42 poised for mounting to theflexible film substrate 30. During assembly, the mountingelements 62 are loaded through theflexible film substrate 30, and theground contact 42 is pressed down onto theflexible film substrate 30 until thebase 60 engages theground element 38. The mountingelements 62 may have points at distal ends thereof that allow the mountingelements 62 to pierce theflexible film substrate 30. Alternatively, theflexible film substrate 30 may have slots or openings formed therethrough that receive the mountingelements 62. The mountingelements 62 are configured to engage thesecond surface 34 of theflexible film substrate 30 to retain theground contact 42 on theflexible film substrate 30. The mountingelements 62 may be folded or wrapped underneath theground element 38 along thesecond surface 34. Alternatively, the mountingelements 62 may be rolled under theflexible film substrate 30 or otherwise manipulated such that the mountingelement 62 becomes enlarged beneath the flexible film substrate to resist backing out of the mounting elements from the slots so that the relative position of theground contact 42 may be stabilized with respect to the flexible film substrate. -
Figure 3 is a bottom perspective view of theantenna 12. The mountingelements 52 of thesignal contact 40 are illustrated along thesecond surface 34 of theflexible film substrate 30. Similarly, the mountingelements 62 of theground contact 42 are illustrated along thesecond surface 34 of theflexible film substrate 30. The mountingelements flexible film substrate 30 and are bent inward on top of one another. The mountingelements Figure 3 . Other folding operations or processes may be used in alternative embodiments to secure the mountingelements second surface 34 of theflexible film substrate 30. - In the illustrated embodiment, wrapping the mounting
elements second surface 34 forces the mountingelements second surface 34 and/or forces the correspondingbases 50, 60 (shown inFigure 2 ) against thefirst surface 32 and the signal andground elements elements flexible film substrate 30 against thebases signal element 36 and theground element 38 to be pressed against thebases signal contact 40 and theground contact 42, respectively. Theflexible film substrate 30 may be at least partially compressed between the mountingelements bases Figure 3 also illustrates theopening 80 extending through theflexible film substrate 30. The mountingelements opening 80 along theaxis 82. -
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of theantenna 12.Figure 4 illustrates theflexible film substrate 30 with the signal andground elements first surface 32.Figure 4 also illustrates thefirst signal contact 40 mounted to theflexible film substrate 30 such that thesignal contact 40 engages thesignal element 36. Similarly, theground contact 42 is mounted to theflexible film substrate 30 such that theground contact 42 engages theground element 38. - The
wire termination 54 of thesignal contact 40 is terminated to thecenter conductor 26. Thewire termination 64 of theground contact 42 is terminated to thecable braid 22 of thecable 16. Thestrain relief element 70 of theground contact 42 is terminated to thejacket 20 of thecable 16. - The
opening 80 is positioned vertically below thewire termination 54, thewire termination 64 and thestrain relief element 70. In an exemplary embodiment, during assembly, tooling extends through theopening 80 to crimp thewire termination 54 to thecenter conductor 26, to crimp thewire termination 64 to thecable braid 22 and to crimp thestrain relief element 70 to thejacket 20. For example, a crimping portion of corresponding dies are loaded through theopening 80 to engage thesignal contact 40 and theground contact 42. Theopening 80 provides access to thesignal contact 40 and theground contact 42 for termination to thecable 16. The wire terminations 54, 64 are generally aligned with one another to receive thecable 16. The wire terminations 54, 64 are positioned proximate to one another, which may reduce an overall length of thecable 16 and/or affect electrical characteristics of the connection. - During assembly, when the mounting
elements 52 are secured to theflexible film substrate 30, a force is applied on the mountingelements 52 in an upward direction, shown by the arrow A. Pressing of the mountingelements 52 against thesecond surface 34 of theflexible film substrate 30 generally compresses thesignal element 36 against thesignal contact 40. For example, thesignal element 36 is pressed against the base 50 to ensure good electrical contact between the base 50 and thesignal element 36. When assembled, theflexible film substrate 30 is captured between the base 50 and the mountingelements 52. Theflexible film substrate 30 may be at least partially deflected or flexed inward when the mountingelements 52 are pressed closed. As such, a direct electrical connection is provided between thesignal contact 40 andsignal element 36, without the need for solder or epoxy. Thesignal contact 40 is mechanically self-secured to theflexible film substrate 30. No additional element or component is needed to make electrical or mechanical connection between thesignal contact 40 and thesignal element 36. - During assembly, when the mounting
elements 62 are secured to theflexible film substrate 30, a force is applied on the mountingelements 62 in an upward direction, shown by the arrow B. Pressing of the mountingelements 62 against thesecond surface 34 of theflexible film substrate 30 generally compresses theground element 38 against theground contact 42. For example, theground element 38 is pressed against the base 60 to ensure good electrical contact between the base 60 and theground element 38. When assembled, theflexible film substrate 30 is captured between the base 60 and the mountingelements 62. Theflexible film substrate 30 may be at least partially deflected or flexed inward when the mountingelements 62 are pressed closed. As such, a direct electrical connection is provided between theground contact 42 andground element 38, without the need for solder or epoxy. Theground contact 42 is mechanically self-secured to theflexible film substrate 30. No additional element or component is needed to make electrical or mechanical connection between theground contact 42 andground element 38. -
Figure 5 is a top perspective view analternative antenna 112. Theantenna 112 is configured to be connected to a wireless device, such as the wireless device 14 (shown inFigure 1 ) by acable 116. Thecable 116 is a coaxial cable having anouter jacket 120, acable braid 122, a dielectric 124 and a center conductor 126 (shown in phantom). The dielectric 124 surrounds thecenter conductor 126 and isolates thecenter conductor 126 from thecable braid 122. Thecable braid 122 circumferentially surrounds the dielectric 124. Theouter jacket 120 circumferentially surrounds thecable braid 122 and defines the outer surface of thecable 116. Thecable 116 has adiameter 128 defined by theouter jacket 120. - The
antenna 112 includes aflexible film substrate 130 having afirst surface 132 and asecond surface 134 opposite thefirst surface 132. Theflexible film substrate 130 may be similar to the flexible film substrate 30 (shown inFigure 1 ). Theflexible film substrate 130 has asignal element 136 and aground element 138 on thefirst surface 132. Theflexible film substrate 130 may be configured to flex during its normal use, such as by folding or bending theflexible film substrate 130 to fit within a particular space or area of theelectronic device 14. - The
antenna 112 includes asignal contact 140 andground contact 142. Thesignal contact 140 is mounted to theflexible film substrate 130 and is electrically connected to thesignal element 136. Theground contact 142 is mounted to theflexible film substrate 130 and is electrically connected to theground element 138. Thesignal contact 140 andground contact 142 are mechanically connected to theflexible film substrate 130. Thesignal contact 140 andground contact 142 are mounted to theflexible film substrate 130 without the use of solder or epoxy. Thesignal contact 140 andground contact 142 may be connected to thesignal element 136 andground element 138, respectively, by compression connections, wherein the signal andground contacts ground elements ground elements - The
signal contact 140 includes abase 150 and mountingelements 152 used to secure thesignal contact 140 to theflexible film substrate 130. Thebase 150 is electrically connected to thesignal element 136. The mountingelements 152 may be similar to the mounting elements 52 (shown inFigure 1 ). The mountingelements 152 mechanically secure thesignal contact 140 to theflexible film substrate 130. For example, the mountingelements 152 may pierce through theflexible film substrate 130 and wrap around thesecond surface 134 of theflexible film substrate 130. The mountingelements 152 may constitute barbs that are configured to pierce through theflexible film substrate 130. Other types of mechanical fastening means or processes may be used in other embodiments to mechanically secure thesignal contact 140 to theflexible film substrate 130. - The
signal contact 140 includes awire termination 154 extending from thebase 150. Thewire termination 154 is configured to be terminated to thecenter conductor 126 of thecable 116. In the illustrated embodiment, thewire termination 154 constitutes an insulation displacement type connection where thecenter conductor 126 and dielectric 124 are loaded betweenbarbs 156 that pierce or cut through the dielectric 124 to mechanically and electrically engage thecenter conductor 126. In the illustrated embodiment, thewire termination 154 includes two sets ofbarbs 156 spaced apart from one another. Thebarbs 156 mechanically and electrically connect to two different areas of thecenter conductor 126 for increased stability and connection. Thebarbs 156 may be provided at opposite ends of thebase 150. Other types of wire terminations are possible in alternative embodiments, including crimp type terminations. Thesignal contact 140 extends along alongitudinal axis 158, which is parallel to thesignal element 136. - The
ground contact 142 includes abase 160 and mountingelements 162 used to secure theground contact 142 to theflexible film substrate 130. Thebase 160 is electrically connected to theground element 138. In an exemplary embodiment, as will be described in further detail below, the mountingelements 162 mechanically secure theground contact 142 to theflexible film substrate 130. For example, the mountingelements 162 may pierce through theflexible film substrate 130 and wrap around thesecond surface 134 of theflexible film substrate 130. Other types of mechanical fastening means or processes may be used in other embodiments to mechanically secure theground contact 142 to theflexible film substrate 130. - The
ground contact 142 includes awire termination 164 extending from thebase 160. Thewire termination 164 is configured to be terminated to thecable braid 122 of thecable 116. In the illustrated embodiment, thewire termination 164 constitutes an insulation displacement type connection where thejacket 120 andcable braid 122 are loaded betweenbarbs 166 that pierce or cut through thejacket 120 to mechanically and electrically engage thecable braid 122. In the illustrated embodiment, thewire termination 164 includes two sets ofbarbs 166 spaced apart from one another. Thebarbs 166 mechanically and electrically connect to two different areas of thecable braid 122 for increased stability and connection. Thebarbs 166 may be provided at opposite ends of thebase 160. Other types of wire terminations are possible in alternative embodiments, including crimp type terminations. Theground contact 142 extends along alongitudinal axis 168, which is parallel to theground element 138. - The
ground contact 142 includes astrain relief element 170 configured to engage thejacket 120 of thecable 116. In the illustrated embodiment, thestrain relief element 170 represents an interference type connection for holding thejacket 120. Other types of strain relief elements may be used in alternative embodiments to engage thejacket 120 and provide strain relief for thecable 116, such as a crimp connection. Thestrain relief element 170 helps to maintain a relative position of thecable 116 with respect to the signal andground contacts - The
strain relief element 170 includes afirst spring beam 172 and asecond spring beam 174. The first and second spring beams 172, 174 extend from opposite sides of thebase 160 and face in opposite directions. The first and second spring beams 172, 174 are curled inward toward thecable 116. Distal ends 176, 178 of the first and second spring beams 172, 174 engage thejacket 120 to hold thejacket 120 in place relative to thebase 160. The first and second spring beams 172, 174 define receivingspaces cable 116. The first and second spring beams 172, 174 are curved around the receivingspaces spaces different gauge cables 116. When thecable 116 is loaded into the receivingspaces cable 116. The first and second spring beams 172, 174 thus hold thecable 116 by an interference engagement. While twospring beams Figure 5 , any number of spring beams may be provided in alternative embodiments. Additionally, the spring beams 170, 172 may extend from the same side of the base 160 in an alternative embodiment. - Having the
wire termination 164 engage thecable 116 at both ends of thebase 160 allows theground contact 142 to be electrically commoned with thecable braid 122 for a longer portion of thecable 116 than if thewire termination 164 only engaged thecable 116 at one position along the length of thecable 116. Thestrain relief element 170 is positioned between the two sets ofbarbs 166 such that thewire termination 164 is terminated to thecable 116 on both sides of thestrain relief element 170. Having thestrain relief element 170 positioned between the two sets ofbarbs 166 shortens the overall length of theground contact 142, as compared to a ground contact in which thestrain relief element 170 is positioned rearward of the rear set ofbarbs 166. Having thestrain relief element 170 positioned between the two sets ofbarbs 166 additionally provides mechanical retention of thejacket 120 with respect to thewire termination 154. - During assembly, the mounting
elements 152 are loaded through theflexible film substrate 130, and thesignal contact 140 is pressed down on to theflexible film substrate 130 until thebase 150 engages thesignal element 136. The mountingelements 152 may have points at distal ends thereof that allow the mountingelements 152 to pierce theflexible film substrate 130. Alternatively, theflexible film substrate 130 may have slots or openings formed therethrough that receive the mountingelements 152. When loaded onto theflexible film substrate 130, the mountingelements 152 are configured to engage thesecond surface 134 of theflexible film substrate 130. The engagement of the mountingelements 152 to thesecond surface 134 retains thesignal contact 140 on theflexible film substrate 130. In an exemplary embodiment, the mountingelements 152 may be folded or wrapped underneath thesignal element 136 along thesecond surface 134. For example, the mountingelements 152 may be bent inward, such as in a manner similar to a staple, to secure thesignal contact 140 to theflexible film substrate 130. The mountingelements 162 may be substantially similar to the mountingelements 152 and may be secured to theflexible film substrate 130 in a similar manner. - Wrapping the mounting
elements second surface 134 forces the mountingelements second surface 134. Wrapping the mountingelements second surface 134 may force the correspondingbases first surface 132 and the signal andground elements elements flexible film substrate 130 against thebases signal element 136 and theground element 138 to be pressed against thebases signal contact 140 and theground contact 142, respectively. Theflexible film substrate 130 may be at least partially compressed between the mountingelements bases - Pressing the mounting
elements 152 against thesecond surface 134 of theflexible film substrate 130 generally compresses thesignal element 136 against thesignal contact 140. For example, thesignal element 136 is pressed against the base 150 to ensure good electrical contact between the base 150 and thesignal element 136. When assembled, theflexible film substrate 130 is captured between the base 150 and the mountingelements 152. Theflexible film substrate 130 may be at least partially deflected or flexed inward when the mountingelements 152 are pressed closed. As such, a direct electrical connection is provided between thesignal contact 140 andsignal element 136, without the need for solder or epoxy. Thesignal contact 140 is mechanically self-secured to theflexible film substrate 130. No additional element or component is needed to make electrical or mechanical connection between thesignal contact 140 and thesignal element 136. - Pressing the mounting
elements 162 against thesecond surface 134 of theflexible film substrate 130 generally compresses theground element 138 against theground contact 142. For example, theground element 138 is pressed against the base 160 to ensure good electrical contact between the base 160 and theground element 138. When assembled, theflexible film substrate 130 is captured between the base 160 and the mountingelements 162. Theflexible film substrate 130 may be at least partially deflected or flexed inward when the mountingelements 162 are pressed closed. As such, a direct electrical connection is provided between theground contact 142 andground element 138, without the need for solder or epoxy. Theground contact 142 is mechanically self-secured to theflexible film substrate 130. No additional element or component is needed to make electrical or mechanical connection between theground contact 142 andground element 138.
Claims (5)
- An antenna (12) terminated to a coaxial cable (16) having a center conductor (26) surrounded by a dielectric (24) and a cable braid (22), wherein the antenna (12) comprises:a substrate (30) having first and second surfaces (32, 34), the substrate having a signal element (36) and a ground element (38) on the first surface, and a ground contact (42) having a base (60) mounted to the first surface of the substrate in electrical connection with the ground element, the ground contact having mounting elements (62) extending from the base, the ground contact having a wire termination (64) terminated to the cable braid of the coaxial cable,characterized by:the mounting elements (62) engaging the second surface such that the substrate is captured between the mounting elements and the base of the ground contact,a signal contact (40) having a base (50) mounted to the first surface of the substrate in electrical connection with the signal element, the signal contact having mounting elements (52) extending from the base, the mounting elements engaging the second surface such that the substrate is captured between the mounting elements and the base of the signal contact, the signal contact having a wire termination (54) terminated to the center conductor of the coaxial cable,the electrical connection between the base (60) of the ground contact (42) and the ground element (38) being a compression connection wherein the base (60) is pressed against the ground element (38) in direct electrical contact with the ground element (38), by the mounting elements (62) of the ground contact forcing the substrate against the base (60),the electrical connection between the base (50) of the signal contact (40) and the signal element (36) being a compression connection wherein the base (50) is pressed against the signal element (36) in direct electrical contact with the signal element (36), by the mounting elements (52) of the signal contact forcing the substrate against the base (50),the antenna being a flexible antenna and the substrate being a flexible film substrate.
- The flexible antenna (12) of claim 1, wherein the mounting elements (52) of the signal contact engage the flexible film substrate (30) such that the flexible film substrate is captured between the mounting elements and the base (50) of the signal contact, and wherein the mounting elements (62) of the ground contact engage the flexible film substrate (30) such that the flexible film substrate is captured between the mounting elements and the base (60) of the ground contact.
- The flexible antenna (12) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the mounting elements (52) of the signal contact are folded under the flexible film substrate (30) to compress the flexible film substrate between the mounting elements and the base (50) of the signal contact, and wherein the mounting elements (62) of the ground contact are folded under the flexible film substrate (30) to compress the flexible film substrate between the mounting elements and the base (60) of the ground contact.
- The flexible antenna (12) of claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the mounting elements (52) of the signal contact pierce through the flexible film substrate (30) to mechanically secure the signal contact to the flexible film substrate, and wherein the mounting elements (62) of the ground contact pierce through the flexible film substrate (30) to mechanically secure the ground contact to the flexible film substrate.
- A wireless communication system (10) comprising the flexible antenna (12) of any preceding claim.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/776,790 US8368613B2 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2010-05-10 | Wireless communication system |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2387099A2 EP2387099A2 (en) | 2011-11-16 |
EP2387099A3 EP2387099A3 (en) | 2014-01-01 |
EP2387099B1 true EP2387099B1 (en) | 2018-01-03 |
Family
ID=44247022
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP11165286.3A Active EP2387099B1 (en) | 2010-05-10 | 2011-05-09 | Wireless communication system |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US8368613B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2387099B1 (en) |
KR (1) | KR20110124155A (en) |
CN (1) | CN102437412B (en) |
TW (1) | TWI563722B (en) |
Families Citing this family (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8797217B2 (en) * | 2011-05-20 | 2014-08-05 | Blackberry Limited | Mobile wireless communications device including antenna assembly having spaced apart parallel conductor arms and related methods |
TWI518984B (en) * | 2012-10-16 | 2016-01-21 | 智象科技股份有限公司 | Coaxial cable designed antenna for electronic devices |
JP2015026971A (en) * | 2013-07-26 | 2015-02-05 | 小島プレス工業株式会社 | On-vehicle antenna |
ES2797352T3 (en) * | 2013-11-27 | 2020-12-02 | Gatekeeper Systems Inc | Loop Antenna Accessories and Methods |
US9356366B2 (en) * | 2014-04-24 | 2016-05-31 | Tyco Electronics Corporation | Cable connector assembly for a communication system |
US9419349B2 (en) | 2014-10-10 | 2016-08-16 | Tyco Electronics Brasil Ltda. | Coaxial cable connector having a fastener and anti-rotation projections |
JP6595408B2 (en) * | 2015-09-11 | 2019-10-23 | 株式会社フジクラ | Antenna device and manufacturing method thereof |
CN106611892B (en) * | 2015-10-22 | 2019-09-06 | 泰科电子(上海)有限公司 | External antenna and its manufacturing method |
WO2017106876A1 (en) * | 2015-12-17 | 2017-06-22 | Finisar Corporation | High-speed data connector |
DE102016125897B4 (en) * | 2016-02-11 | 2022-06-23 | Few Fahrzeugelektrikwerk Gmbh & Co. Kg | Solderable electrical connection element |
CN110323539B (en) * | 2018-03-30 | 2021-04-13 | Oppo广东移动通信有限公司 | Electronic device and control method thereof |
CN109066071A (en) * | 2018-04-26 | 2018-12-21 | 西安电子科技大学 | A kind of Compact type broadband flexibility microstrip antenna |
US11664584B2 (en) * | 2020-07-31 | 2023-05-30 | Te Connectivity Solutions Gmbh | Monopole antenna assembly |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5738529A (en) * | 1996-02-29 | 1998-04-14 | Methode Electronics, Inc. | Cable connector system |
JP2000260504A (en) * | 1999-03-11 | 2000-09-22 | Jst Mfg Co Ltd | Fpc crimp terminal and crimp structure for core wire using same |
SE520321C2 (en) * | 2001-04-11 | 2003-06-24 | Allgon Ab | PCB plug |
DE202004004622U1 (en) * | 2004-03-24 | 2004-05-19 | Virant, Robert | Connector for high frequency coaxial cable are fitted with crimped metal contacts and fitted into a housing |
JP2005317260A (en) | 2004-04-27 | 2005-11-10 | Tyco Electronics Amp Kk | Coaxial connector |
CN101467503B (en) * | 2006-06-08 | 2011-05-18 | 皇家飞利浦电子股份有限公司 | Submount for electronic components |
TW200826357A (en) * | 2006-12-15 | 2008-06-16 | Advanced Connectek Inc | Device and method to fix coaxial cables in an antenna system |
JP2008258883A (en) * | 2007-04-04 | 2008-10-23 | Kojima Press Co Ltd | Antenna apparatus |
JP4832384B2 (en) * | 2007-08-29 | 2011-12-07 | 矢崎総業株式会社 | Antenna connection structure and antenna connection method |
US8242969B2 (en) * | 2009-05-08 | 2012-08-14 | Cisco Technology, Inc. | Connection for antennas operating above a ground plane |
-
2010
- 2010-05-10 US US12/776,790 patent/US8368613B2/en active Active
-
2011
- 2011-05-09 KR KR1020110043437A patent/KR20110124155A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2011-05-09 EP EP11165286.3A patent/EP2387099B1/en active Active
- 2011-05-10 TW TW100116295A patent/TWI563722B/en active
- 2011-05-10 CN CN201110219858.3A patent/CN102437412B/en active Active
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
---|
None * |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN102437412B (en) | 2016-02-24 |
EP2387099A2 (en) | 2011-11-16 |
TW201203696A (en) | 2012-01-16 |
US20110273339A1 (en) | 2011-11-10 |
KR20110124155A (en) | 2011-11-16 |
TWI563722B (en) | 2016-12-21 |
CN102437412A (en) | 2012-05-02 |
US8368613B2 (en) | 2013-02-05 |
EP2387099A3 (en) | 2014-01-01 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
EP2387099B1 (en) | Wireless communication system | |
US9356366B2 (en) | Cable connector assembly for a communication system | |
US7833054B2 (en) | Connector | |
US6224407B1 (en) | Coaxial switch connector assembly | |
US7509732B2 (en) | Crimping apparatus for terminal | |
US7025631B2 (en) | Coaxial connector | |
US20080026612A1 (en) | Multiposition RF connector | |
US7903031B2 (en) | Antenna apparatus | |
US11289823B2 (en) | Antenna and electronic device using same | |
US20120142211A1 (en) | Coaxial Connector And Method For Assembling The Same | |
US10085340B2 (en) | Flat circuit body with terminal and manufacturing method thereof | |
KR20070033465A (en) | An antenna arrangement for a portable radio communication device, and a portable radio communication device comprising such and antenna arrangement | |
US11205861B2 (en) | Staking terminal for a coaxial cable | |
EP2059971B1 (en) | Antenna | |
US8917216B2 (en) | Antenna device with U-shaped slit | |
US20220006215A1 (en) | Electrical Terminal For Flat Flexible Cables | |
EP1176664A2 (en) | Chip antenna and manufacturing method of the same | |
US20160218471A1 (en) | Coaxial-type electric connector | |
US9236670B2 (en) | Coaxial connector | |
US8299974B2 (en) | Method of making a vehicle antenna | |
US6232930B1 (en) | Dual band antenna and method of making same | |
JP2009526471A (en) | Antenna device for portable radio communication device and portable radio communication device provided with the antenna device | |
JP4529064B2 (en) | ANTENNA DEVICE AND WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE | |
CN110350314B (en) | Antenna and electronic device | |
US20230092528A1 (en) | Ultra-low profile coaxial cable connector |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A2 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: BA ME |
|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
PUAL | Search report despatched |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A3 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: BA ME |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: H01Q 9/42 20060101ALI20131122BHEP Ipc: H01Q 1/38 20060101ALI20131122BHEP Ipc: H01Q 1/12 20060101AFI20131122BHEP |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20140317 |
|
RBV | Designated contracting states (corrected) |
Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
RAP1 | Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred) |
Owner name: TE CONNECTIVITY CORPORATION |
|
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: H01Q 9/42 20060101ALI20170627BHEP Ipc: H01Q 1/38 20060101ALI20170627BHEP Ipc: H01Q 1/12 20060101AFI20170627BHEP Ipc: H01R 103/00 20060101ALN20170627BHEP Ipc: H01R 12/69 20110101ALI20170627BHEP Ipc: H01R 9/05 20060101ALI20170627BHEP |
|
INTG | Intention to grant announced |
Effective date: 20170726 |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: EP Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: REF Ref document number: 961081 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20180115 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R096 Ref document number: 602011044658 Country of ref document: DE |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: NL Ref legal event code: MP Effective date: 20180103 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: LT Ref legal event code: MG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: MK05 Ref document number: 961081 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20180103 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: NL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: NO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180403 Ref country code: CY Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: HR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: LT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: PL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: GR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180404 Ref country code: IS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180503 Ref country code: SE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: LV Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: AT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: RS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: BG Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180403 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R097 Ref document number: 602011044658 Country of ref document: DE |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: AL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: RO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: EE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 |
|
PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CZ Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: SM Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: DK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: SK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 |
|
26N | No opposition filed |
Effective date: 20181005 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: PL |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: BE Ref legal event code: MM Effective date: 20180531 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MC Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: MM4A |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20180531 Ref country code: CH Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20180531 Ref country code: SI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20180509 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20180509 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20180531 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20180509 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: TR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: PT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20180103 Ref country code: HU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO Effective date: 20110509 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: MK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20180103 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20230309 Year of fee payment: 13 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20230316 Year of fee payment: 13 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IT Payment date: 20230412 Year of fee payment: 13 Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20230314 Year of fee payment: 13 |